Mardi Gras King Cake: A Festive Southern Dessert Tradition

Mardi Gras King Cake

If you’re ready to celebrate in true Southern style, this king cake recipe brings the flavors and colors of Mardi Gras right to your table.

Ingredients for Mardi Gras King Cake

• 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (for icing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
• Colored sanding sugar in purple, green, and gold
• Plastic baby (optional)

Instructions to Bake the Best King Cake

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and yeast. Let it proof for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt. Add softened butter, eggs, vanilla, and the proofed yeast. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the filling by mixing brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside melted butter in a small bowl.
5. Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Brush with melted butter and evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling.
6. Roll the dough tightly from the long side, pinching the seam to seal. Shape into a large ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Tip: Insert a small bowl in the center to keep it round while rising.
7. Cover and let rise for another 45–60 minutes until puffy.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the king cake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Meanwhile, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a smooth icing.
10. Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle with icing and sprinkle generously with purple, green, and gold sugar. Insert the plastic baby into the cake bottom-side up.
11. Slice into 16 servings and enjoy the festive flavors! Pro tip: Serve with coffee or chicory for an authentic New Orleans touch.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 437 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 73 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Sugar: 35 g

Frequently Asked Questions About King Cake

What is the significance of the plastic baby?

The hidden plastic baby symbolizes luck and prosperity. Tradition says whoever finds it must host next year’s party!

Can I make king cake ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the cake, wrap it tightly, refrigerate overnight, then bake and decorate the next day for the freshest results.

Let the flavors and colors of New Orleans shine through every slice of this classic king cake.

Original recipe credit